John Peter Heffernan of Rye, known as “Jack” to friends and “Cappy” to his family, passed away peacefully on Sept. 17, 2025, surrounded by his loving wife, children, and their spouses.
Born in Worcester, Mass., on Nov. 8, 1939, Jack was the son of Ray and Margaret Heffernan and brother to Billy (Joan), Paul (Joan), Clare (Ray) Shlora, and Franny (Frank) Rooney.
He is survived by his beloved wife, June (Dolce), and their six children: Maggie (JK) Trimble, John Jr. (Diana), Dulcey (Matt) Connon, Jamie (Carrie), Clare (Mark) Mulcahy, and Kate Heffernan, as well as 20 cherished grandchildren. He was predeceased by his beloved son, Matthew Heffernan.
Jack graduated from Boston College in 1962, where he played hockey and a season of baseball. A lifelong athlete and outdoorsman, he loved skiing, golfing, fishing, splitting firewood, cheering on his grandchildren, and gathering his family around the fireplace.
A self-made businessman, Jack founded JPH Management Inc., through which he owned and managed several Manhattan properties. He was devoted to service, serving on the boards of Sacred Heart Greenwich, Catholic Academy of Bridgeport, and Iona Prep.
Jack also generously supported numerous institutions, including the New York Catholic Foundation, Boston College, Thomas Aquinas College, Sacred Heart Greenwich, The Montfort Academy, St. Joseph’s College, St Catherine’s, Cornelia Connelly Center, Resurrection School and Church, the National PKU Alliance, and POTS, among others. His faith, generosity, and dedication to Catholic charities and education were central to his life.
A proud American, Jack loved his country, always flew the flag, and found great joy in the simple moments, whether sharing a meal around the dinner table, watching a sunset, or sitting by a warm fire with his family.
A Celebration of life will be held from 4-7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 23, at Westchester Country Club in Rye. A funeral Mass will follow at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 24, at the Church of the Resurrection in Rye, with burial at Greenwood Union Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the National PKU Alliance. Online condolences can be made at www.grahamfuneralhomerye.com.
